February 10, 2005

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF DOING BUSINESS IN CALIFORNIA
Ayres Family Hotels Set New Standards in European Boutique Hotels

COSTA MESA, Calif., February 10, 2005 – It is 1905. Theodore Roosevelt begins his first full term as president of the United States. Ty Cobb makes his debut as a major leaguer. And Albert Einstein publishes his first paper defining his special theory of relativity.

It is also an important year in the history of Ayres family as Ohio native Frank H. Ayres, his wife Daisy and son Donald Ayres journey to Los Angeles to explore land development opportunities. Now a century later, the current members of the Ayres family are commemorating that auspicious beginning, which led from developing subdivisions and building more than 30,000 homes, to the creation of a dynamic chain of 16 European-style boutique hotels beginning in 1985.

Celebrations to commemorate the 100th anniversary are planned for each of the company’s hotels in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties, and the Inland Empire. The company’s corporate and hotel staff numbers more than 600.

“We are proud of our heritage and the accomplishments of the family members who have gone before us,” said Donald Ayres Jr., the patriarch and leader of the business that bears the Ayres name.

“We view our 100th anniversary as an opportunity to thank our guests for their patronage, and to inspire our managers and staff to continue their commitment to our three core company values, caring for people, valuing teamwork and delivering results.”

His sons, Donald Ayres III, Bruce Ayres and Doug Ayres, as well as daughter Allison Ayres D’Eliscu, have all made major contributions to the success of the hotel chain. The sons are still very active in the business.

Ayres Hotels are known for their convenient locations near major airports, regional shopping centers, world-famous theme parks, and other popular attractions.

Over the years, the Ayres have developed a reputation for providing impeccable guest service, plus creature comforts like living room-style lobbies, with rich upholstered furnishings, inspiring artworks, and imported antiques, and well-appointed guestrooms featuring special touches like exclusive Ayres Dream Sleeper pillow-top mattresses.

“We like to say that our guests’ comfort is our only business,” said Ayres. “That’s why we are pleased to offer appointments that make our properties seem more like luxurious homes than hotels. We want our guests to know they can count on resting well and making the very most of their stay.”

About Ayres Hotels
In the hospitality business since 1985, the Ayres Hotels owns and operates a unique collection of custom European-style boutique hotels in prime Southern California locations. The core values of the company include caring for people, valuing teamwork and delivering results. The Ayres family has been a leader in the California residential and commercial real estate industry for a century. Visit the company online at www.ayreshotels.com or call 714-429-9372 ext. 159.